In eukaryotic cells, the core structural and catalytic components of the ribosome are primarily composed of which type of RNA?

• A. mRNA
• B. snRNA
• C. rRNA
• D. tRNA

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of ribosomes in eukaryotic cells: Ribosomes are the molecular machines responsible for synthesizing proteins by translating messenger RNA (mRNA) sequences into amino acid chains.
2. Recall the composition of ribosomes: Ribosomes are made up of two main components—ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and proteins. The rRNA forms the core structural framework and also has catalytic activity, meaning it helps catalyze the formation of peptide bonds during protein synthesis.
3. Differentiate between types of RNA: mRNA carries the genetic code from DNA to the ribosome; tRNA brings amino acids to the ribosome; snRNA is involved in RNA splicing. None of these form the core structure or catalytic center of the ribosome.
4. Identify rRNA as the key RNA type: rRNA molecules fold into complex three-dimensional structures that create the ribosome's active sites, making them essential for both the ribosome's structure and function.
5. Conclude that the core structural and catalytic components of the ribosome are primarily composed of rRNA, distinguishing it from other RNA types like mRNA, tRNA, and snRNA.